Freese Credits Tim Howard’s Mentality for Goalkeeping Style

New York City FC and USMNT goalkeeper Matt Freese delivered a memorable performance in the Gold Cup quarterfinals, stopping three penalties in the shootout to help the USMNT advance to Wednesday`s semifinal against Guatemala.

Freese, the 25-year-old Harvard graduate who professes a deep passion for soccer, revealed that former USMNT star Tim Howard ignited his love for goalkeeping and remains his professional idol.

Freese told DAZN: “Tim Howard was the one I looked up to when I was younger. His tenacity, his athletic ability, combined with his extensive experience over the years… You could truly see his mentality and showmanship. His leadership, his mentality shone through on the field.

“He had immense confidence in his approach to the game and his teammates. It`s something I`ve always admired and tried to emulate.”

Freese, who has been the starting keeper for all four of the USMNT`s Gold Cup matches ahead of usual starter Matt Turner, emphasized that preparation was crucial to his significant penalty saves against Costa Rica.

Explaining his mindset, Freese said, “It`s a combination of everything: preparation, reading body language, and being in the moment, letting your instincts take over. In those crucial moments, I like to let my personality show and try to have fun with it. I`m quite confident on the field, and I like that to be evident.”

Howard`s influence extends far beyond his 121 appearances for the USMNT; his decorated Premier League career and memorable World Cup displays have motivated a generation of American goalkeepers.

The USMNT`s next challenge is the Gold Cup semifinal against Guatemala, scheduled for Wednesday in St. Louis.